You've learned how to add and subtract fractions when they are written in a row. You can also work them when they are written in a column. First, you copy the denominator. Then you either add or subtract, depending on the sign. Let's try adding these fractions:
Remember that the denominator of our answer will be 7. So we just add the top numbers (numerators). The answer to this problem is 
. Adding fractions in a column is just a different way of looking at the problem. You still copy the denominator and then add the top numbers to get your answer. Try another addition problem:
Copy the denominator into your answer. Now add the top numbers: 2 plus 6 equals 8 (2 + 6 = 8). Your answer to this problem should be 
.
Now let's try a subtraction problem:
First, copy the denominator into your answer. Your answer will have a denominator of 8. Now look at the top numbers and subtract: 5 minus 2 equals 3 (5 - 2 = 3). The answer to this problem is 
. Let's try another subtraction problem:
First things first-copy that denominator. Now you just need that top number. Subtract 4 minus 2 (4 - 2). If your answer is 
, you're right!
